Meta

Month: July 2016

Almost every business has a cyber liability exposure. Most businesses are securing some form of coverage to protect their companies from these types of threats. A recent report by a leading insurance firm said that purchases of cyber insurance grew over 30% in the last year. It has become clear that even a good IT department cannot solve all the cyber risks your business has.

Cyber liability coverage (for data breaches) has evolved from just insurance for information technology companies, to coverage that nearly every kind of business should have — if they do not already. Businesses including retailers, banks, contractors, distributors, restaurants, medical offices and more are unaware of the severe data breach exposure they face.

Here are a few of the latest methods used by cyber criminals

Social Engineering. This email looks like it is coming from your boss or CFO to transfer funds into the company account.

Direct Force. This is software that attaches to your computer, usually through emails, and then goes through hundreds of thousands of different words, combinations of words, and numbers to try to crack your password.

Pushing. This is a common way to gain entry and pull information. Again, usually attached to an email, and once it is opened, the virus accesses your system.

Cyber Insurance

We can provide your firm with the right combination of pricing and coverage. Cyber risk insurance is available at very reasonable premiums. Many of our companies offer coverage to help protect your business from loss.

With the summer months approaching, now would be a great time to review your homeowner’s and personal insurance program. There is a large spike in auto accidents during June through August. We offer a free review to assess your insurance needs, and we can recommend needed personal insurance coverage like a personal umbrella, cyber liability, and flood insurance. Summer Risks Are Very Real.

Here are a few of the risks your family may face this summer:

Watercraft — Remember, your personal watercraft insurance does not cover racing. In addition, if your boat is over a certain length, you will need a separate boat policy. Remember to have personal floatation devices for all people in the boat, and do not drink and drive your boat. Venture beyond the geographic limits in the policy and the insurance may be nullified.

Travel — If you are planning a family vacation, make sure you keep your home safe while gone. Use timers on lights, cancel the mail and garbage, and do not post vacation pictures on social media while you are gone.

Swimming — Never leave a child unattended around water. If your child does not know how to swim, make sure they have a floatation device on at all times.

Bug Bites — If you are heading outdoors, be prepared for annoying critters. Use EPA-registered insect repellents* that contain at least 20% DEET (products include Cutter Backwoods and Off! Deep Woods) for protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs. Other repellents protect against mosquitoes, but may not be effective against ticks or other bugs.

Barbecuing — Never leave a barbeque unattended. Do not barbecue inside or in a garage. If you receive a minor burn, hold the skin under cool running water for up to 15 minutes to reduce swelling or until the pain subsides.

Sunburns — Always use sunscreen, and if your skin is burned, mix one-part whole milk with one-part cool water and gently apply it into the affected areas with a washcloth.

Heat Stress — You may be having fun or working in the sun, but if it is hot, keep hydrated by drink plenty of water. Wear lightweight clothing and take breaks every hour or so.

Fire pits — Fire pits are becoming increasingly popular for outdoor entertaining. While some burn wood, others use propane or natural gas. Keep kids at a safe distance and teach them that fire pits stay hot long after the flames go out.